Toms River has become a premier destination for 55+ active adult living in New Jersey, offering a compelling coastal lifestyle without the premium price tag of oceanfront towns. Its location in Ocean County provides a classic four-season climate with milder winters and warm summers perfect for enjoying the nearby Jersey Shore. The area caters specifically to retirees with a high concentration of established 55+ communities, creating a built-in social network. While property taxes are a consideration in NJ, Toms River often presents a more affordable alternative to Northern NJ counties, especially when paired with the low-maintenance living these communities provide. From boating on the river to exploring downtown shops, Toms River delivers a vibrant, convenient retirement.
Where55 lists 7 active adult communities in Toms River and the surrounding area. Below, we highlight some of the top-rated options and what makes each one worth considering. Browse all Toms River communities →
Top 55+ Communities in Toms River, New Jersey
Greenbriar Woodlands
Greenbriar Woodlands in Toms River, New Jersey is an active adult community aptly named for its surrounding trees and forests. Situated on 404 acres of land in a rural area of scenic Ocean County, this gated community features a private golf course and a 20,000 square-foot clubhouse.
Price range: $200,000–$400,000
Amenities: Golf, Pool, Fitness Center, Clubhouse, Pickleball, Tennis, Spa
Lake Ridge
Lake Ridge in Toms River, NJ is an active adult community built on 300 acres of beautifully landscaped property. This resale community open to adults aged 55 or better is comprised of 925 thoughtfully designed single-family homes.
Price range: $300,000–$400,000
Amenities: Golf, Pool, Fitness Center, Clubhouse, Tennis, Spa
Holiday City At Berkeley
Holiday City at Berkeley a 55+ community located in Toms River, New Jersey. This master-planned community is comprised of multiple neighborhoods, including Holiday City South, Holiday City Carefree, Holiday City West, and Holiday City Heights.
Price range: $100,000–$300,000
Amenities: Golf, Pool, Clubhouse, Pickleball, Tennis, Spa
Holiday City At Silverton
Holiday City at Silverton is a well-established 55+ community located in Toms River, New Jersey. Developed from 1967 to 1975, Holiday City at Silverton was one of the first active adult communities in the area and is now a thriving neighborhood of 1,595 homes.
Price range: $100,000–$200,000
Amenities: Golf, Pool, Clubhouse, Spa
Silver Ridge Park
Silver Ridge Park is a 55+ community located in Toms River, New Jersey. This well-established community was constructed from 1968 to 1986 and now hosts 3,169 single-family homes.
Price range: $100,000–$300,000
Amenities: Golf, Pool, Clubhouse, Spa
See all 7 communities in Toms River →
What to Look for in a Toms River 55+ Community
When choosing a 55+ community in Toms River, prioritize the lifestyle fit. Larger communities like Greenbriar Woodlands or the Holiday Cities function as self-contained towns with extensive clubs and activities, ideal for social butterflies. Scrutinize HOA fees—they vary widely and cover different services like exterior maintenance, amenities, and even optional security. Proximity to essentials is key: check your distance to Hackensack Meridian Health and Community Medical Center, as well as major shopping hubs like the Toms River Shopping Center or the Route 37 corridor. Consider your desire for a golf course, clubhouse size, or pool. Also, explore the community's rules on guest stays and age restrictions to ensure they align with your family visits and long-term plans.
Explore Nearby Cities
If you're considering the broader New Jersey area, these nearby cities also have active adult communities worth exploring:
- Barnegat (21 communities)
- Monroe (10 communities)
- Whiting (10 communities)
- Lakewood (8 communities)
- View all 55+ communities in New Jersey →
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do 55+ communities cost in Toms River, New Jersey?
Home prices in Toms River's 55+ communities range broadly. You can find resale homes, often ranch-style, from the low $200,000s in older sections of communities like Holiday City. More modern or upgraded homes in communities like Greenbriar Woodlands or Lake Ridge typically span from the mid-$300,000s to over $500,000. Remember to budget for monthly HOA fees, which can range from around $200 to over $400, covering common amenities and often exterior maintenance.
What amenities are common in Toms River retirement communities?
Common amenities in Toms River's 55+ communities reflect an active, social lifestyle. Most feature a central clubhouse for events, along with outdoor pools and tennis or pickleball courts. Many, like Greenbriar Woodlands and Silver Ridge Park, have their own golf courses. Shuffleboard, bocce, and fitness centers are also popular. Given the area's flat terrain and interconnected community designs, walking and biking paths are a standard and valued feature for residents.
Is Toms River, New Jersey a good place to retire?
Yes, Toms River is widely considered a good place to retire, particularly for those seeking an active, community-oriented lifestyle. The climate offers four distinct seasons with access to beach summers. While New Jersey's overall tax burden is high, Ocean County property taxes can be lower than northern counties, and seniors benefit from exemptions. The area has excellent healthcare access via Hackensack Meridian Health and Community Medical Center, a major draw for retirees.